Meanwhile, Singapore's delegation at the event was led by its Minister for Environment and Water Resources, Dr Vivian Balakrishnan. According to a joint statement released yesterday, the ministers discussed the challenges posed by climate change as well as the importance of building capability in climate science and modelling to address these challenges.

The ministers encouraged greater bilateral and regional cooperation to develop better solutions with the aim of improving climate resilience within the region. At the meeting, they took note of the progress of environmental cooperation between the two countries in the areas of solid waste management, air quality monitoring, water resource management, 3P (people, public and private) partnerships, climate change and transboundary pollution.

The ministers welcomed the bilateral sharing of experience and expertise in these areas, particularly the enhancement of Brunei's air quality monitoring network. They also acknowledged that officials from both countries have exchanged knowledge and experience on promoting environmental education and awareness to drive greater environmental ownership and sustainability.

Recognising the importance of nurturing youths as advocates for environmental ownership and sustainability, the ministers agreed to continue the exchange of youth environmental programmes.

The ministers also reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthen cooperation to foster continuous progress in the environmental relationship between both countries. Brunei is slated to host the next convention in 2014.